Treating RA

The symptoms and severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) vary from person to person, and so will treatments. One of the best ways to make sure that the treatment you receive is right for you is to talk freely with your doctor. Open up and tell him or her about all of your symptoms. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions. A good relationship with your doctor is a big part of getting a treatment that works for you.

Once you've found the right treatment, it's important to continue being open with your doctor, especially if you've been experiencing increasing pain or inflammation. Many treatments might not work as well as they did in the beginning. When you communicate openly with your doctor, he or she can make adjustments to your medications in order to continue to give you the best relief possible. Think back to when you first began therapy for your RA. Are you still experiencing the same relief you felt then?

Breakthroughs in RA treatment

New steps forward are being made in RA medications all the time. Your doctor may recommend one of these newer medications as a possible treatment option.

Remember, starting the right treatment early can limit, and even prevent, long-term joint damage and disability. Open communication with your doctor can help make this happen.

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